Sharing by Natalie’s mother
Reading story books and doing arts and craft activities are Natalie Greenaz’s definition of a hobby to help her relax and boost her mood. She also likes taking walks in the park and cycling during her leisure times. During a cold rainy day, Natalie loves to warm up with a bowl of hot chicken mushroom soup.
At the age of 10, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects her lymphatic system, which is part of her body’s immune system.
“One day, out of the blue, I noticed Natalie’s neck was swollen. After that, she started having intermittent fever and was experiencing night sweats. My husband and I were very concerned, so we decided to bring her for a consultation at a private clinic.”
After taking the prescribed antibiotics for two weeks, Natalie seemed to be recovering. However, soon after, her early symptoms came back again.
“We brought her to the government clinic. After a blood test, the doctor immediately referred us to the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) and we were taken there on the same day by an ambulance. Once we reached the hospital, Natalie had to undergo various blood tests, X-ray, CT scan, biopsy and a bone marrow examination.”
The doctor confirmed that she had cancer.
“I was in a massive shock and couldn’t comprehend why this was happening to our only child. During that time, I feel that life will never be the same for us again.”
In order for her to get better, Natalie had to undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Natalie and her mother were away from home for a lengthy period of time, and Natalie could not attend school because of her condition.
“The most difficult moment for me throughout the journey was seeing Natalie in pain after she finished her first chemotherapy cycle. She was experiencing mouth ulcers, hair loss and intermittent fever. She also lost her appetite which made her lose weight during that time. As a parent, it is hard to just stand aside and see your child in pain.”
Despite the hardship, what provided Natalie and her mother the courage to keep fighting was the constant support and encouragement from their families, friends, teachers, doctors, nurses and the support services team.
“I remember one of the doctors told us that cancer is not going to be the end of your lifetime. Prayers and well wishes from our relatives and friends gave us the strength to face the challenges that come our way.”
“We are also very grateful to SCCS for helping us in many ways. They provided support via financial and food aid, helping us bear the cost of various tests and scans. During our hospital stay, SCCS support services team also planned fun activities to ensure kids at the ward stay happy. Natalie told me that one of her favourite memories was receiving surprise gifts and learning new arts and craft from the team.”
In June 2022, Natalie successfully completed six cycles of chemotherapy and 11 sessions of radiotherapy.
“I am telling this story to show support and encourage other parents who are going through a similar journey. To all the parents and children who are fighting cancer, know that cancer is not going to be the end of your lifetime. Battling cancer may be one of the hardest things you will ever do in life, but remember that you are not alone in this journey.”
“You are given this life because you are strong enough to live it. Keep on fighting and don’t give up!”
In 2022, Natalie is 11 years old and she continues her follow-up medical care and consultation at the Paediatric Daycare and Clinic in SGH.
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